Closes four checkpoints: how Finland reacts to asylum seekers from Russia

The Finnish government announced the closure of checkpoints on the border with Russia / photo AP

Finland will close four checkpoints on the border with Russia. This decision is due to the large number of refugees from Russia.

By February 18, Finland will close four of its eight border crossings with Russia. This was stated by Prime Minister of Finland Petteri Orppo.

Finland closes borders with Russia

At a press conference on Thursday, November 16, Petteri Orpo announced the closure of four checkpoints on its eastern border with Russia.

Interior Minister Mari Rantanen clarified that Finland will completely close the border crossing points in Vaalimaa, Nuijamaa, Imatra and Niirala until February.

Border crossings will be closed to all traffic overnight from Friday to Saturday. They will remain closed until February 18, the statement said.

Acceptance of asylum applications will be concentrated at the Salla and Vartius border checkpoints. It is noted that at other border crossing points that will remain open, it is not possible to apply for asylum.

Tensions in relations between Finland and Russia: what is known

• Back in April 2023, Finland began construction of the first section of the fence on the border with Russia. This decision was made against the backdrop of Russia’s war with Ukraine and in order to avoid a migration crisis. This fence is made of steel mesh and is 3 meters high. The estimated completion time for the construction of the fence is the end of 2026.
• Since September 16, Finland has banned the entry of passenger cars registered in Russia. And subsequently, on November 9, the Finnish border service announced that they would not allow cyclists from Russia into the country in order to prevent the illegal flow of migrants.
• Not only the restriction of entry into the territory of Finland was introduced by its government. After the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Finland is trying to get rid of the influence of the citizens of the aggressor. The Finnish government has begun to actively work on laws aimed at prohibiting Russians from entering into any real estate transaction within the country.